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The Way of Heaven— |
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is it not like drawing a bow? |
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The high are pressed down, |
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the low are lifted up; |
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those with surplus are diminished, |
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those lacking are replenished. |
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The Way of Heaven— |
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diminishes the surplus and replenishes what is lacking. |
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The Way of humans— |
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is not so; |
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it diminishes those who lack to serve those with surplus. |
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Who can have surplus to serve the world? |
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Only those who possess the Way. |
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Therefore, the Sage acts but does not rely; |
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success is achieved, yet he does not dwell; |
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he does not wish to be seen as virtuous. |